Editor,
Soroptimist International of South Whidbey would like to thank the many folks who did so much to make their recent “Whidbey Women + Art” event held Sept. 2 and 3 a huge success. A big thank you to Erin and Ross Egge, owners of Dancing Fish, who hosted the event at their picturesque vineyards in Freeland. Many people commented on what a magical setting it is. Their marvelous wines made the event more elegant. Thank you also to Laura Wills of Jupiter Coffee in Freeland who donated her amazing freshly baked mini-scones for the artists and volunteers each morning. They were the perfect way to start each day. By lunchtime, everyone was glad to have DLux’s hot dog cart with its yummy gourmet hot dogs and grilled cheese available right there. Thank you to Dave and Allison Lux for your contribution.
As usual, South Whidbey businesses stepped up with generous donations. At the gold level ($1,000 +), thank you to James Wadal, principal of Wadal Wealth Management, powered by LPL Financial. Award-winning illustrator and teacher Cheryl Weisz, a participating artist, was so pleased with the event, she made a donation at the silver level ($500-$999). Whidbey Telecom was also a silver donor. Other businesses that contributed at the bronze level ($250-$499) were Wild Birds Unlimited and Whidbey Clay Center, both of Freeland. Venture Out in Langley provided boxes of dahlia tubers to offer for donations. Many other businesses donated items for the impressive gift baskets that were raffled off. We also want to thank the private individuals at the bronze level. Thanks all for your generosity, which contributed so much to the beautiful ambience and the event’s coffers.
And of course, we must thank all the talented women artists whose creative work was the draw that brought the people out. So many people commented on the high quality of the work offered, and at reasonable prices. Although this is only the third year for our Whidbey Women and Art event, its reputation is growing.
Soroptimist International of South Whidbey Island is the local chapter of Soroptimist International, a global volunteer non-profit organization that raises money to fund scholarships for women and girls to gain economic empowerment through education and training. Founded over 100 years ago in California as one of the first service organizations for women, Soroptimist International now has clubs in 120 countries. On South Whidbey, we sponsor scholarships, usually awarding two $2000 scholarships annually, and another $1,000 scholarship each year. More information on the deadlines for these scholarships may be found on the club website. Our next fund-raising event is our Amaryllis sale, currently under way.
And, finally thanks to all the wonderful South Whidbey folks who came out to support the Whidbey Women + Art Show. You all are what makes Whidbey Island a wonderful place to live.
Marilee Nauman
President of SISWI
